Mitch Altman

Background and Career

Mitch Altman is a hacker, inventor, and educator best known for his significant contributions to the maker movement and DIY culture. As the founder of Cornfield Electronics, he invented the TV-B-Gone,

a device that allows users to turn off TVs in public places, aiming to provoke thought about the role of television in society.

Contributions to Hackerspaces

Mitch is highly respected within the global hackerspace community. He co-founded Noisebridge in San Franscisco, one of the first hackerspaces in the United States, which has become a model for similar spaces around the world. His commitment to these communities extends through his advocacy for open-source principles and his efforts to create inclusive, supportive environments for learning and innovation.

Role at Engedi 2.0

Mitch is currently advising Engedi 2.0 on establishing its hackerspace, leveraging his extensive experience to help cultivate a space where creativity and collaboration flourish under the principle of “excellence.” His vision for Engedi 2.0 involves not just setting up the physical space but also fostering a culture that values ethical technology use and communal learning.

Philosophy and Outreach

Mitch’s approach is community-focused, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces that welcome diverse groups of people to explore, learn, and create. He conducts workshops worldwide, teaching skills that empower individuals and promote a more thoughtful engagement with technology.

Recognition

Mitch has been recognized as a leading figure in the maker community, his work and ideas have been featured in numerous publications, reflecting his influence on both the hobbyist and professional aspects of hardware development.